5-Minute Dungeon
Designer: Connor Reid
Artists: Alex Diochon
Publisher: Wiggles 3D, Spin Master
Player Count: 2-5
Recommended Age: 8+
Playing Time: 5 minutes per dungeon
Year Published: 2017
Overview:
“5-Minute Dungeon” is a cooperative, fast-paced card game where players must work together to defeat a series of dungeon challenges in just five minutes. The game is designed to be frantic and exciting, requiring quick thinking and even quicker reflexes as players match their cards to symbols on the dungeon cards to progress through the game.
Gameplay:
In “5-Minute Dungeon,” players choose a hero, each with unique abilities and a specific deck of cards. The game is structured around a series of dungeons, each guarded by a boss. Players must defeat monsters, obstacles, and mini-bosses by playing matching symbol cards from their hands. The game comes with a free timer app, featuring different narrators, to keep track of the intense five-minute limit for each dungeon.
The game is straightforward to learn and quick to teach, making it accessible for players of all ages. Each game session is divided into rounds where players collectively battle against the dungeon deck, using their cards to match symbols on the dungeon cards. Success requires strategic card play and efficient communication among players.
Components:
The game includes:
- 275 cards
- 5 double-sided hero mats (10 heroes in total)
- 3 double-sided boss mats (6 bosses in total)
- A free timer app for Android and Apple devices
The cards are well-designed, with vibrant artwork and clear symbols that enhance the fast-paced nature of the game. The hero and boss mats are double-sided, offering variety and replayability.
Pros:
- Fast-Paced and Fun: The five-minute timer ensures that the game is always exciting and intense, perfect for quick play sessions.
- Cooperative Play: Encourages teamwork and communication, making it a great game for families and groups.
- Easy to Learn: Simple rules and quick setup make it accessible for younger players and those new to board games.
- Replayability: With multiple heroes and bosses, each game session can offer a different experience.
Cons:
- Limited Strategic Depth: The game’s fast pace and reliance on quick reactions can limit the depth of strategy compared to more traditional, slower-paced games.
- High Stress: The constant time pressure may be too intense for some players, particularly younger children or those who prefer more relaxed gameplay.
- Component Wear: Given the rapid card handling, the cards can wear out quickly if the game is played frequently.
Conclusion:
“5-Minute Dungeon” is a thrilling and energetic game that excels in providing quick bursts of fun. Its cooperative nature and fast-paced gameplay make it ideal for family game nights, parties, or any situation where time is limited. While it may not offer the deep strategic play of longer games, its accessibility and excitement more than compensate. If you’re looking for a game that delivers intense action in a short period, “5-Minute Dungeon” is a fantastic choice.
